Practice Areas

Michael Hales is an attorney working in estate planning, contracts, and timeshare law.

Copyright and trademark law

Protecting and enforcing copyright and trademark is a cornerstone of the world economy. Individuals and businesses must understand this complicated area of law in order to protect their rights. An intellectual property strategy can increase the value of a business portfolio.

Copyright issues arise when using software, doing business online, creating products, advertising, publishing informational material, and many other activities. Likewise, disputes frequently arise when employees seek copyright protections for works created on the job. Consulting an attorney early on in the process can bring clarity to these complicated matters and avoid potential disputes.

A brand is a valuable and vital asset. Trademark law protects that brand. Understanding the intersection between trademark, trade dress, and other rights protected by the Lanham Act can maximize the value of a business IP portfolio. We understand that trademark assets are unique and can work with clients to provide practical and efficient guidance.

disability

If you are unable to work due to your disability, you may qualify for Social Security disability benefits. The most common programs are through Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Because the application process can be cumbersome and complicated, you may consider retaining an attorney to help you through the process and represent you before the administrative law judge that may hear your case.

Becki Lyn and Michael have represented hundreds of disabled clients from Fairbanks, Alaska to Ponce, Puerto Rico. With this extensive experience, they can review your case and assist you before an administrative law judge in the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review (ODAR).

negotiation/contract writing

Becki Lyn and Michael have worked as negotiation and contracts managers at the university. The majority of this work involved high-dollar software contracts. They gained valuable experience in assisting the university throughout the RFP process, from the initial investigatory stages through evaluations, negotiation, and implementation. They also spent substantial time assisting the university's online department as they expanded to serve 60,000 students worldwide while employing over 1600 online adjunct instructors.

Clear and concise writing is vital to create mutually agreeable contracts. An early adapter of the Plain English movement, Michael has spent countless hours translating contractual provisions into clear language that is more accessible to the modern consumer. In 2011, he was hired to teach English 101 through Brigham Young University - Idaho's online programs, teaching over 700 students all over the world. He now teaches business writing with an emphasis on clear and effective communication.

Vacation ownership

Prior to relocating to Idaho, Michael Hales spent countless hours assisting hundreds of clients who, for a variety of reasons, needed to cancel their timeshare contracts. He also spent time educating other attorneys about timeshare law so they can assist their clients with this need. Beyond presentations, he published an article with the Idaho State Bar which you can access here. Michael was also interviewed by News 8 in order to alert consumers about the risks associated with timeshare upfront fee scams. You can access a transcript and recording of that interview here.